What does intubation mean?
Intubation refers to the medical procedure of inserting a tube into a person's airway to facilitate breathing. This can be necessary in emergency situations, such as when a patient is unconscious or having trouble breathing on their own, or during surgery to ensure a secure airway. The procedure is typically performed by a trained medical professional, such as an anesthesiologist or emergency medicine physician, using specialized equipment. Intubation is a critical skill in many areas of medicine and can be lifesaving in certain situations. It requires careful technique and attention to detail to avoid complications.
nounThe act of inserting a tube into a person's airway to facilitate breathing, often used in medical emergencies or during surgery.
- Medical procedure of inserting a tube into the airway
- Process of inserting a tube into a bodily cavity for medical purposes
"The doctor performed an intubation to help the patient breathe after the accident."
"The anesthesiologist carefully performed the intubation before the surgery."
"Intubation is a crucial skill for emergency medical technicians to learn."
Countable noun, used to refer to multiple instances of the procedure.
"The hospital reported a high number of intubations during the flu season."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of intubation
The term 'intubation' originates from the Latin words 'in-' meaning 'into' and 'tubus' meaning 'tube'. The procedure of inserting a tube into a bodily cavity for medical purposes has a long history, with early recorded instances dating back to ancient civilizations. The modern medical term 'intubation' emerged in the late 19th century with advancements in anesthesia and respiratory care.
How intubation is actually used
Formal and technical term used in medical contexts. Often used in discussions of emergency medicine, anesthesiology, and critical care.